Description

Citing recent examples including Enron, Arthur Andersen, and WorldCom, Permission to Steal explores what went wrong and advocates a universal reassessment of what is considered “good” in corporate America.

A fascinating exploration of the recent corporate scandals which have rocked the global business community.

Written with sharp and compelling style, suitable for students, professionals, and general readers.

Companion website offers discussion points for the book as well as an up-to-date chronology of ongoing corporate scandals.

About the Author

Lisa H. Newton is Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Program in Applied Ethics at Fairfield University. She is the author of numerous articles and books in business ethics, and most recently published Business Ethics and the Natural Environment (Blackwell, 2004).

“This is an excellent book that reveals the roots of corporate scandal from a philosopher’s viewpoint. Since it is intended as an introduction to the topic for the general public, it is written to be easily portable and accessible to general readers.” (Journal of Business Ethics, 12 November 2012)

"Permission to Steal is a delectable little book, well thought out, fast-paced, and easy to read. In just one hundred pages, Newton traverses the diverse landscape of juicy journalism, deep philosophical analysis, and practical moral education of the public. I have no hesitation in recommending this as a good and worthwhile read..." Ethical Perspectives

"Permission to Steal is hard-hitting, insightful, passionate, and refreshingly readable. It is a must-read for all citizens who care about ethics in business and a more healthy society." --W. Michael Hoffman, Bentley College

"This book blends the insight of a first-rate philosopher with the moral outrage that every citizen should feel about the wave of recent corporate scandals. Newton minces no words in addressing the fundamental questions that every person should ask: What went wrong? Why was it wrong? How did it happen?" --Joe DesJardins, Executive Director, Society for Business Ethics

"Permission to Steal reads like a whodunit: once you start reading it, you will find it difficult to put down. A crisp outlining of corporate scandals moves seamlessly to an analysis of their causes. Newton concludes with seven tasks to bring our society to a point where we can ‘trust our nation’s wealthiest not to rob us.’ Bravo to the author: all will learn from her in this delightful read." --Ronald Duska, American College Center for Ethics in Financial Services